Overcoming Your Dental Fears

In a survey conducted by the British Health Foundation, more than 35 percent of people reported avoiding the dentist due to intense dental fears or phobia of the dentist. In the U.S., it is estimated that approximately 15 percent of adults skip routine dental care visits because of extreme anxiety and fear. While dental fears are common, visiting the dentist on a routine basis is essential to your health. Avoiding routine visits to the dentist can lead to unnecessary disease and emotional distress. Understanding your dental fears and taking steps to conquer them can be imperative to your long-term health and quality of life.

It is important to understand the difference between anxiety and dental fear. Dental anxiety is a sensation of discomfort and uncertainty that usually begins at the time of your dentist appointment. Dental fear, or phobia, however, is a serious condition that can cause someone to feel panic and terror.

People with dental phobia are at greater risk of dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. These individuals may also deal with emotional burdens, such feeling insecure about smiling, laughing, or even speaking. Damaged or discolored teeth can cause people to limit their social interactions simply because their dental fears keep them from getting professional dental care. Dental phobia is difficult to overcome and you should seek help to address it.

Poor oral health can be an indicator of certain life-threatening conditions, such as heart disease. Many times, people with dental phobia experience a lower life expectancy and are more susceptible to poor health outcomes.

Symptoms of dental fear or phobia include:

Feeling physically ill at the mere thought of a dental appointment

Difficulty sleeping or feeling tension the night before a visit to the family dentistry office

Increasing nervousness while in the dentist’s waiting room

Anxiety when seeing dental instruments, a dentist, or a dental hygienist

Difficulty breathing or feeling panic during your dentist appointment

The thought of going to the dentist should not cause you to feel panic. If you suffer from dental fears or phobia, you should seek help from a compassionate, affordable dentist in Abingdon.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Abingdon, call Dental One Associates of Bel Air today at (410) 698-1674 or make an appointment.

Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Abingdon. With 11 affiliated practices throughout Maryland, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Bel Air, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Bel Air.

I love my hygienist Tammy. She is always friendly and does a great job!

Maryellen S.

Appointment was on time. Nancy is always very professional and efficient, she explains exactly what she is doing and what I can do to help improve my dental care

Douglas S.

It was a pleasant experience for an unpleasant procedure

Wendy K.

Courtesy and professional demeanor of staff

Jeanne S.

Because of warmth of the people in the front area and the care and concern of the dentist and his aide shown unto me!

Charles P.

I saw Dr Blaney. What a wonderful personable person!! He made me so comfortable and went well above the limit of patient assistance. He made sure that I would be well taken care of in the next […]

Deborah R.

Had a cleaning with Tammy, very pleasant, excellent chair side manner.

Paula P.

Polite, efficient, skilled

Paula M.

Excellent service for years now

Connie M.

Dr. Blaney is my favorite dentist. I have my fair share of tooth issues and dentist alike but I felt so welcomed in this office by him and the staff. Never felt that way going to the dentist before. […]

Amanda K.

I was not scared and the dentist made me laugh.

Tayah M.

The people are so nice there and really care about your comfort and your dental health.

Eileen Y.

Good service.

Maurice C.

Everyone was extremely friendly and answered all of my questions. My dentist could not have been more professional and explained everything to me like he was talking to a friend. He also talked about […]

Derek S.

Professional service conducted in a timely manner. Staff listened to my needs and concerns.

Charles R.

Had a cavity filled and felt no pain. My last dentist was horrible so I am so happy I changed over to Dental One Associates. Dr. Blaney is great and eases my anxiety.

Tonia M.

Dr Blaney is great. Always on time and super down to earth.

Adam H.

Dr. Chatwell and his wonderful assistant

Madeleine S.

It’s just a great dental office….the dentist and staff are so friendly and make you feel like family instead of just a customer with a number…

Nancy M.

The staff are so wonderful! They are engaging and really take time to educate you so you can achieve optimal oral health. Love it there!

We accept most insurance plans and will be happy to help you understand the coverage that you have. We will do our best to see that you receive your maximum insurance benefits for all covered services.

The above-listed practice complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Notice of Nondiscrimination.